High Springs Fire Department Selects New Chief

HIGH SPRINGS ‒ The High Springs Fire Department has announced the appointment of Joseph Peters as the new Fire Chief, effective May 6, 2024.

The City’s Public Information Officer Kevin Mangan in a press release said Peters has an extensive background in the fire service and a passion for community safety, adding that Peters brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role, describing his 30 years of dedication in serving the public in various capacities within the fire department. Peters served 14 years with the Mount Dora Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of Captain, and seven years with The Villages Public Safety, as a Lieutenant. More recently, Peters served as Chief in Ford City, PA before relocating back to Florida, where he currently works as Training Coordinator of the Havana Volunteer Fire Department, and Life Support Educator at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare.

“It is an honor to be chosen as the next Fire Chief of High Springs,” said Peters in the press release. “I am privileged to be part of a very talented and dedicated team and look forward to becoming part of the High Springs community.”

City Manager Jeremy Marshall weighed in on Peters’ appointment saying, “The City of High Springs is very excited about the appointment of Chief Peters.” Marshall continued, “Chief Peters comes with a vast set of skills and experience that will greatly contribute to the success of the department.”

The press release further states that throughout his career, Peters has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic vision, and a dedication to professional development. His expertise in emergency response protocols, community outreach initiatives, and personnel management will be invaluable assets as he assumes his new role.

Mangan said that Peters succeeds former Fire Chief Bruce Gillingham who retired after decades of dedicated service to the High Springs community, and that the department expresses its sincere gratitude to Chief Gillingham for his leadership and contributions over the years.

The High Springs Fire Department has expressed its confidence under Peters' guidance, saying that it will continue to uphold its reputation as a premier emergency response agency, dedicated to serving and protecting the community with professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

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